Natural beauty in the garden: environmentally friendly garden furniture

Environmentally friendly raw materials and sustainable production

When purchasing new, sustainable garden furniture, it is important to consider the environmental friendliness and origin of the materials used. As a renewable raw material, wood is particularly popular, not least because of its appealing aesthetics. Although wood is a material of natural origin, it is not always ecologically sustainable. Tropical woods travel a long way before they find their way into our gardens or onto our patios and balconies. They often come from regions where illegal deforestation jeopardises entire ecosystems and local populations.
Many manufacturing companies in the garden furniture industry are helping to minimise the negative environmental impact caused by transport by using local timber. Due to its properties, the use of wood species such as robinia, sweet chestnut, oak, Douglas fir or larch is advantageous for outdoor use.

Labels and certifications

Especially when buying garden furniture made from imported wood, it is advisable to look out for certifications and labels that confirm the sustainable origin of the wood. Certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) ensure that the wood comes from ecologically and socially responsible forestry.

The Austrian Ecolabel has also developed a guideline for weather-resistant wood products (UZ 28). Certified products are made from domestic wood species suitable for outdoor use and are characterised by the absence of chemical wood protection measures, as varnishing or pressure impregnation is associated with a negative environmental impact in all phases of the lifecycle. Leaching losses and soil contamination at the installation site are therefore avoided. The products can also be easily disposed of at the end of their service life. As a licence holder, the company 'WALLI Wohnraum Garten' stands for high-quality garden furniture made from sustainable materials in a timeless design.

Do it yourself & upcycling

Another sustainable alternative to buying garden furniture is to make it yourself according to the DIY principle. Sustainable garden furniture can also be created by upcycling old furniture. As well as saving resources, DIY projects offer scope for creative development. Pallet furniture, for example, is still in vogue and gives used pallets a second use, extending their life and service life.
Constructive wood protection measures ensure that the moisture content is kept low and make the wood more resistant to environmental influences. These should therefore take precedence over the use of chemical wood preservatives, especially for self-builds. In the event that constructive measures do not sufficiently protect the wood, it is important to use environmentally friendly wood treatment products.

Care and maintenance

Proper care can maximise the life of garden furniture. The regular application of environmentally friendly wood care products helps to maintain the beauty of wooden furniture in the long term. Storing the furniture in a dry place ensures that it is largely protected from the effects of the weather and remains in top condition for years.

Conclusion

Environmentally friendly garden furniture not only beautifies your outdoor area, but also contributes to environmental protection. Look for labels and certifications to help you make sustainable purchasing decisions. Or get involved in DIY upcycling projects. With regular care and maintenance, you can ensure that your garden furniture will give you pleasure for years to come.